"Tourism Gets a Boost: 195 Projects Encompassing 6,838 km of Roads in Progress, Valued at ₹1,38,206 Crore"

In a concerted effort to bolster tourism across the country, the Central government is actively implementing 97 projects, encompassing 3,111 km of road infrastructure, with an estimated investment of ₹74,353 crore. These projects aim to enhance connectivity to 50 prioritized tourist destinations identified by the Ministry of Tourism under Phase-I.

The Standing Committee, led by Chairman V Vijayasai Reddy, highlighted the pivotal role that improved road connectivity plays in boosting the tourism potential of any region. The committee had sought a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing highway connectivity to the 50 iconic tourist destinations outlined in the Budget Speech.

The ongoing initiatives involve the implementation of 97 projects spanning 3,111 km at a total capital cost of ₹74,353 crore, with the goal of improving connectivity to the first set of 50 prioritized tourist destinations. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has outlined plans for an additional 98 projects covering 3,727 km of road and highway connectivity, requiring a capital investment of ₹63,853 crore. This strategic expansion aims to further enhance connectivity to the remaining 50 tourist destinations.

The Ministry's response to the standing committee's inquiry affirmed the importance of these initiatives in driving tourism growth. The comprehensive approach involves substantial investments in road infrastructure, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering tourism development across the nation.

As road connectivity continues to be a key factor in attracting tourists and facilitating seamless travel experiences, these projects are expected to contribute significantly to the tourism sector's expansion. The government's multi-phase strategy aligns with its vision to transform and elevate the tourism infrastructure, promoting economic growth and cultural exchange across the identified tourist destinations.

HBL